Obituaries

Dixie L. Van Horn, 88, of Ridgway, PA, died on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at her residence after a lengthy illness.

She was born on January 31, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Ut, the daughter of the late Forester and Helen Burke Miller.

On September 11, 1974, she married Marlin Van Horn, who survives.

Throughout her life, Dixie was a talented seamstress and a skilled cook, known for her delicious meals and warm hospitality. Her passion for these pursuits brought joy and comfort to many.  Her compassionate spirit and unwavering faith as a Jehovah’s Witness enriched the lives of all who knew her. Above all, Dixie cherished spending quality time with her husband, children, and dear friends.

Felcia L. Nelson, age 77, of 203 Montmorenci Road, Ridgway, PA died on Thursday, May 22, 2024, at Penn Highlands DuBois after a lengthy illness.

She was born on March 8, 1949, in Ridgway, the daughter of the late Eve and Dorik Metelski. 

She married Richard A. Nelson, who preceded her in death, at St. Leos Catholic Church in Ridgway on May 24, 1969.

Felcia was a graduate of Elk County Christian High School, class of 1965, and a graduate of Ora Jean Beauty Academy in Erie. She worked as a beautician at Bella Donna Salon for 55 years. She was a member of St. Leos Catholic Church where she diligently served numerous ministries. Felcia had a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother and recited the rosary Sunday evenings at church, leading many others to share that devotion. She led the Prayer Chain, served on the Pastoral Council, and was a member of the Cursillo Movement. Felcia received great blessings from attending morning Mass with her friends. Receiving the Eucharist was “the source and summit” of her daily life.
 
She is survived by her sister Doreen “Doe” Cherry (Skip) and their daughter Vanessa E. Cherry (the love of Felcia’s life) and Vanessa’s furbaby Armani James, a sister Barbara Metelski, and a brother Dorik (Skipper) Metelski all of Ridgway. 

A Mass of Christian Burial for Felcia L. Nelson will be celebrated at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, 111 Depot Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Justin Pino, pastor of St. Leos Catholic Church, as celebrant,  Father Brian Vossler, pastor of St. George Catholic Church in Erie, and Father Mark Groeger, pastor of Prince of Peace Church in Northem Cambria, as con celebrants. 

Burial will be at St. Leos Cemetery.

Friends will be received at the St. Leo Church gathering space from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

Memorial, if desired, can be made to the Ridgway Ambulance.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com

Andrea Swartz Ribble, 45, of Kearney St. in Kane, PA passed away at her home on Wednesday (May 22) following a lengthy illness.  Born Oct. 15, 1978 in Amherst, OH, she is the daughter of Carl Swartz and Cindy (Denver) Allen.  On Aug. 11, 2018 in Kane, she married John Ribble, who survives.

Andrea worked for many years at Tops grocery store and people that didn’t even know her by name would definitely know who she is.  She was always in the front of the store helping the cashiers and customers.

Germaine M. Meyer, 86, of Jackson Road, St. Marys, PA passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

She was born on April 21, 1938 in Kersey, PA, a daughter of the late John and Sabina Hasselman Wolfel.

On September 10, 1955, she married the late Ellsworth “Bud” Meyer, who preceded her in death on January 27, 2017.  Together they shared more than 61 years of marriage.

Germaine was a lifelong resident of the area and attended Queen of the World Church. Very proud to be a nurse, Germaine earned her LPN license later in life and worked at Guy and Mary Felt Manor, where she worked as a charge nurse and enjoyed caring for the residents there over the years. Always enjoying the outdoors, she loved watching the birds and tending to her garden. She was also a talented quilter, often gifting her beautiful works of art to her grandchildren. She also enjoyed canning and farming, with a special love for her cows.

William R. “Bill” Perschke

William R. “Bill” Perschke, 68, of Scandia, PA, died on Friday, May 24, 2024, in LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Erie, PA.

A complete obituary will be published when it’s available through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc.

Caro A. Simonds, 86, of Bradford, PA passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2024 in the arms of Jesus; meeting her family in Heaven, surrounded by her loving family at her home.

She was born on January 19, 1938 in Bradford, the last of the thirteen children of Grant and Ella Huntoon Work.

She attended Bradford Area Schools and was a graduate of the BOCES School of Nursing, Olean, NY.

On October 18, 1955 in the former Lutheran Church on Jerome Ave., Bradford, she married Lester L. Simonds, who survives.

She was employed as an LPN at the Bradford Regional Medical Center for twenty-seven years until her retirement in 2005.  She was fondly known as the singing nurse by her patients and coworkers.  She was also the hospital’s first Employee of the Month.

Mary Lou (Sporner) Schutz, 90, of 850 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA passed away following a brief illness Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Penn Highlands DuBois. 

She was born November 2, 1933, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Isadore J. and Esther Kraus Sporner.  She attended St. Marys Parochial School and graduated from Central Catholic High School, Class of 1951.

On May 27, 1989, in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mary Lou married the late Alfred J. Schutz.  Shortly thereafter, she retired, after 38 years from National Fuel Gas Company. 

Mary Lou enjoyed a very active life and was involved in many activities and organizations.  She was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Her faith drew her to volunteer with various church committees such as Care and Concern, Bereavement Dinners, Candle Committee, and the Altar Society.  She also served as a Eucharistic Minister.

Smethport–Charlotte L. Clutter, 79, of Smethport, PA passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024, at her residence.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Dixie L. Van Horn, 88, of Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at her residence after a lengthy illness.

She was born on January 31, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Ut, the daughter of the late Forester and Helen Burke Miller.

On January 11, 1974, she married Marlin Van Horn, who survives.

Throughout her life, Dixie found joy in the simple pleasures of cooking and sewing, honing her skills in the kitchen and creating beautiful handmade crafts. Her passion for these pursuits brought joy and comfort to many.  Her compassionate spirit and unwavering faith as a Jehovah’s Witness enriched the lives of all who knew her. Above all, Dixie cherished spending quality time with her children and dear friends.

In addition to her husband of 50 years, she is survived by 4 children: Dennis M. Kohler of West Palm Beach, Fl, Marlon Van Horn of Ridgway, Michelle Van Horn of St. Marys, and Tonya Lesansky of Charlotte, NC, 5 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and a sister Kimberly Long and her husband Larry of Alabama.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Miller.

Funeral Services for Dixie L. Van Horn will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com

Wellsville, NY – Anna R. Cook, 90, formerly of Genesee, PA, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Wellsville Manor Care Center. She was born December 12, 1933, in West Union, NY the daughter of the late Harold and Helen (Spencer) French. She first married Frederick Kiel on August 30, 1952, in Genesee, he predeceased her on September 18, 1980. On December 8, 1990, she married Gordon Cook in Genesee, and he predeceased her March 27, 2020.

Anna found her career with the United States Postal Service and was employed for 25 years. Outside of work she was a member of the Genesee United Methodist Church (for over 70 years), where she sang with the choir, in addition to singing for weddings and funerals. She was a Genesee Town Historian, and a member of the Potter County Historical Society.

Donald James Totten, Jr., 72, of 4088 Cortland Drive, Davenport Florida, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024, after a long battle with cancer.

Born on November 15, 1951, in Cuba New York, he was the oldest son of Donald James Totten Sr., and Jeanne (Beyer) Totten. He was married to his wife of 22 years, Karen (Burgett) Totten, who survives.

Donald graduated from Cuba High School, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mathematics and Computer Science from SUNY Brockport, and later, a Master of Science (MS) in Computational Science, also from SUNY Brockport. He had a long career as a Software Engineer and Data Analyst.

Richard N. “Diamond Dick” Schwabenbauer, 98, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of Race Street, St. Marys, PA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

He was born on January 16, 1926 in St. Marys, a son of the late Walter and Gertrude Wickett Schwabenbauer.

On April 15, 1950, he married the late Mary Carminati Schwabenbauer, who preceded him in death on January 8, 1992. Together they shared more than 41 years of love and laughter.

Dick was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church, where he also served as an usher for many years. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII, and was a lifelong member of the American Legion. Dick was the proud owner of Diamond Dick’s Bar and Grill for many years, where he served many a beer and made many friends over the years. In his younger days, Dick won the mustache contest for the celebration of the 125th anniversary of St. Marys. He enjoyed gardening, and often could be found competing with friends to grow the largest leeks, sunflowers, and potatoes to name a few. He also loved going to polka parties with his wife, and was a longtime member of the Sunrays Polka Club.

Mary Lou (Sporner) Schutz, 90, of 850 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA passed away following a brief illness Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Penn Highlands DuBois. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

FAIRPORT, NY—Winifred Maue Anderson Wetzel, 92, of Fairport, formerly of Olean, NY, passed away with her daughter by her side on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in the Fairport Baptist Home in Monroe County, NY.

Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.

Rexford “Rex” Waddington III, 76, of Emporium, PA passed away at Guy & Mary Felt Manor, Emporium, PA on Monday morning (May 20, 2024) where he resided following a series of strokes.

He was born February 6, 1948 in Port Allegany, PA, the son of the late Rexford Waddington, Jr and Mary Ann (Seyler) Waddington. He was his mother’s whole world. She lived with and devoted her entire life to him. He was nicknamed “Sonny” and she was his “Hazel” because she took such good care of him.

Dixie L. Vanhorn, 88, of Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at her residence.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Krise Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.

Felicia L. Nelson, 77, of Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Penn Highlands Dubois.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the director Krise Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.

Kristen Marie Johnson, 42, of 23 Limestone Street, Bradford, PA passed away
Thursday, May 16, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer, at Buffalo
General Hospital.

Born February 6, 1982, in Bradford, she was a daughter of Jeffrey Earl
Johnson, and Stephanie Ellen (Morris) Johnson, both of Bradford.

She attended Bradford Area schools.

Alan Russell Poorman, of Indianapolis, IN, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at home. Alan was born March 25, 1943 in St. Mary’s, PA and grew up in Emporium, PA. He graduated from Penn State University and served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969.

Alan spent his civilian career working for the Department of Defense as a computer programmer. Upon retirement, Alan expanded his woodworking hobby to a business, Cutterboards, Etc., creating functional wood items and artistic wall pieces.

Alan and Noreen enjoyed travelling, attending craft shows and visiting friends and family.

Paul Eugene Monjar, 106, died peacefully on May 22, 2024, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Born on September 6, 1917, in Clintonville, he was a son to the late Harry Austin and Lois (Alverna) Monjar.

The Monjar family moved to Gifford, when Paul was a young child. He graduated from Bradford High School in 1936.

On December 6, 1941 in Bradford he married Hazel E. (Freeman) Monjar, who preceded him in death in 1952. On September 29, 1962, in Bradford, he married Betty J. (Gimera) Monjar who died May 11, 2000.

Paul retired from Dresser Manufacturing Division in 1979 where he was a foreman in the Welding Department. He had worked there for 37 years. After retiring, along with his wife, Betty, they opened The Attic Shop where they specialized in antiques and framing.

Mr. Monjar was well known throughout the area as a fine baseball and softball player and played for many years both on Smethport and Bradford area teams. He also was an avid golfer and a founding member of Pine Acres Golf Course.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Bradford. He served as a Deacon, and Elder, and usher as well as a member of the Property Committee along with taking care of the Memorial Garden. He served at the Friendship Table for several years as well as the Elf Program.

Patrick A. Bayer, 67, of Oil City, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 19, 2024 following a short illness at UPMC Northwest in Seneca, PA.

He was born August 10, 1956, son of the late Andrew X. and Edith Meyer Bayer.  He was a lifelong resident of St. Marys until lately and was a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1975.  He worked at SGL for many years and also drove a truck for Eagle Express.  In recent years he loved working and helping out at a local shelter, being of help to them in various ways which made him most fulfilled in life.  He also would fill in at the local Taco Bell when they needed someone.  His biggest enjoyment was the days spent with his son who meant so much to him.

Anne E. McCleary, 68, of Coudersport, PA passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. 

Anne was born on September 15, 1955, in Buffalo, NY, the daughter of the late Leo and Marjorie (Spencer) Constantine.  She married Byron R. McCleary on October 18, 2003 and celebrated 18 years of marriage until his passing on January 2, 2022.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 23,2024 at 11:00 am at the Christ Episcopal Church, 601 N. Main St., Coudersport.

The family suggest memorial contributions in Anne’s name be made to the Coudersport Public Library, 502 Park Avenue, Coudersport, PA 16915 or to the North Country Voices, c/o Donald Caskey, Treasurer, 75 Snowman Rd., Coudersport, PA 16915.

Anne’s arrangements are in the care of the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport. To share a memory or condolence visit www.thomasfickinger.com

John Hollingshead, 76, of Spruce Ave. in Kane, PA passed away Friday (May 17) at UPMC-Kane.  Born Sept. 26, 1947 in Kane, he is the son of the late John and H. Jane (Hahn) Hollingshead.

John did many things throughout his life.  He had worked for IBM after he got out of school, then he sailed the Great Lakes.  He had also worked for Stackpole and the Allegheny Particle Board Plant and most recently he had been employed by Constable Furniture.

Shirley J. Housler

EMPORIUM- Shirley J. Housler, 94, formerly of North Creek, passed away Monday (May 20, 2024) in Lakeview Healthcare & Rehab. Center, Smethport.

     Born June 9, 1929, in Lewistown, PA, she was a daughter of Sally Mann. On July 5, 1953, in North Creek, PA, she married Robert M. Housler, who died 7/17/2006.

     Shirley was a lifetime resident of the area. She was a homemaker & self-employed beautician.

     She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Emporium, where she was member of the church choir and volunteered in many church positions. She enjoyed painting and had her paintings featured on the cover of the original Cameron County History Book.

Maynard S. Barber

Maynard S. Barber, 82, of Third St., Roulette, PA passed away Friday (May 17, 2024) in his home, surrounded by family.

      Born November 9, 1941, in Port Allegany, he was a son of Alvin S. and Florence Jackson Barber.

      Maynard was a lifetime resident of the area attended Port Allegany High School.

      He had been employed with Pierce Glass (Saint-Gobain Container) retiring in 2002, after 40 years of service.

      Maynard enjoyed going to car shows and camping.

Donna Marie Campman, 93, of East Water Street, Smethport, PA passed away Friday, May 17, 2024, at The Pavilion @ BRMC. 

Born August 13, 1930, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late William and Louise (Kirkpatrick) Brown.

On April 9, 1950 at her home in Bradford, she married Harvey Dale Campman, husband of 74 years, who survives. 

Services are private at the convenience of family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Lewis E. “Lew” Snyder Sr., loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather

Olean- Lewis E. “Lew” Snyder Sr. formerly of Brook St. passed away Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Pines Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center of Olean, after a short illness.

Lew was born in Newfield, PA., on July 16, 1931, he was the son of the late Luther and Margaret (Blackman) Snyder. He was orphaned at the age of 3, and was raised by his beloved aunt and uncle, Susan (Snyder) and Martin Falk. On October 29, 1950, in Roulette, PA, he married his loving wife, Luella J. Snyder, who predeceased him, August 3, 2012.

Lew attended Roulette High School and later received his GED from New York State. He went on to work for the American Olean Tile Plant and St. Bonaventure University Security, retiring in 1992. He enjoyed memberships with, Allegany American Legion, Post # 892, The Allegany 60 Plus Club, The Pulaski Club of Olean, The Moose Lodge of Olean and The Elks Lodge of Olean.

DONALD EDWARD DAILY passed on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at August Health Care in Annandale VA.

He was born Jan 24, 1935, in Wellsville NY, the beloved son of the late Seward W. and Gertrude Daily; longtime companion of Pat Seward; brother of S. Russell and Alan W. Daily and the late Joanne Horton. He is also survived by his nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends.

A memorial gathering was held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 celebrating Don’s life at KALAS FUNERAL HOME, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

Donald grew up in Genesee, PA, and graduated from Valley Forge Military Academy High School in 1953. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana Polytechnic Institute then served in the Air Force for 3 years.  He was employed by the Army Map Service until he retired as a cartographer.  Donald enjoyed sports, bowling and softball, dancing and going on cruises.

Vicki Jo Wood, 47, of Westfield, PA passed away May 20, 2024, surrounded by family, following a brave fight with cancer. 

She was born July 11, 1976, in Wellsboro to Larry and Marion (Davis) Wood.  Vicki Worked at STL Logistics in Painted Post.  She enjoyed time spent with family and friends, being with her son Tyler, hunting, travelling with her partner Michael, and especially tending to her flowers.

Matthew Lance Scott Holdren, age 29 of Elkland, PA passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

He was born in Fayetteville, NC on May 12, 1995 and was a son to David K. Holdren and Christine M. Towner.

Matt enjoyed playing games on his Xbox, listening to music, cooking and grilling, traveling, spending time with his family and exploring different hobbies that intrigued him. He was an avid outdoorsman, spending countless hours hiking, kayaking, fishing and enjoying the lake. His children, Karalyn and Jameson, were his pride and joys and it was said his biggest life accomplishment was achieved once he had his children. Matt was also known as the family prankster and instigator; he always knew how to get people laughing.